New Orleans Pelicans Grades: Pelicans Fumble in Loss to Wizards

Feb 4, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) shoots the ball as Washington Wizards forward Markieff Morris (5) defends in the first quarter at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) shoots the ball as Washington Wizards forward Markieff Morris (5) defends in the first quarter at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Pelicans fumbled away a great chance at a win in Washington, failing to score in the final six minutes of the game.

Things did look pretty good for the New Orleans Pelicans with 5:52 left in the game tonight, against the Washington Wizards.

New Orleans held a slim 91-90 lead, after trailing as many as 12 in the game prior. They had used a strong third quarter run, to overcome a four-point deficit.

Then, the collapse Pelicans’ fans have become so accustomed to seeing happened once again.

New Orleans did not score a single basket in the final six minutes of the contest and fell to the Washington Wizards 105-91.

This marks the Pelicans’ fourth loss in a row, making it even more difficult for them to climb out of the hole they have already made for themselves. In a game that they could have very well won, late game execution cost them dearly once again,

Anthony Davis led the charge for New Orleans, with 25 points, 10 rebounds and two blocks. John Wall torched the Pelicans for 24 points, 13 assists and five steals.

Final Observations:

  • A major problem for New Orleans tonight was their free-throw shooting. 12-22 is not a good stat from the charity stripe. That’s 10 missed points in a 14-point game. Woof.
  • The New Orleans Pelicans’ bench got outscored by arguably the worst bench in the entire league. That alone is inexcusable.
  • This is a tough loss for the Pelicans. They had a real chance at this win and blew it. Tough to see this team making the playoffs, if they can not close games like this.

Next: New Orleans Pelicans Player of the Week: E'Twaun Moore

The New Orleans Pelicans will look to get out of their losing slump Monday night back at home. They will host the Phoenix Suns. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m CST.